What It's Like

Once a major spring break hub, Fort Lauderdale has undergone a huge transformation in the last few years, now attracting a more affluent crowd looking for sun and relatively quiet days by the beach. Huge, luxurious yachts can be seen everywhere, especially docked in front of the beautiful houses lining the pretty waterways. The city is still full of bars, restaurants and shops, but the hard partiers have moved elsewhere, giving way to a few luxury hotels and a handful of fine dining options. The city, dubbed the 'Venice of America' for its canals, has long, sandy beaches, and a couple of interesting museums, but it's also a great place to shop, dine and spend a night out on the town in one of the sophisticated bars lining Las Olas Boulevard.

Where To Stay

If you want to be close to the nightlife and dining scene, stay around Las Olas Boulevard. For a better access to the beach, choose the eastern side of the city, in the area along North Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard.